Paris, April 21, 2025 – The Daily News Times: In October 2016, masked robbers stormed Kim Kardashian’s luxury Paris residence during Fashion Week. The audacious theft, dubbed the “heist of the century,” saw thieves escape with €10 million in jewels. The haul included a $4 million diamond engagement ring gifted by Kanye West.
Now, nearly nine years later, the so-called “Grandpa Robbers” face justice. The trial begins April 28, 2025, in Paris, with a verdict expected by May 23.
The Night of Terror
Kardashian, then 36, was alone in her Hôtel de Pourtalès suite when five men struck. Disguised as police, they entered at 2:30 a.m., holding her at gunpoint. They bound her wrists and ankles, taped her mouth, and locked her in the bathroom. The robbers fled within 10 minutes, taking jewels, a Rolex, and cellphones.
Kardashian, unharmed but shaken, later shared her trauma on Keeping Up with the Kardashians.
Who Are the ‘Grandpa Robbers’?
The suspects, mostly in their 60s and 70s, earned their nickname due to their age. Aomar Ait Khedache, 68, known as “Old Omar,” admitted involvement but denies being the mastermind. Yunice Abbas, 71, another key figure, penned a book titled I Kidnapped Kim Kardashian.
Ten of the original 12 suspects will stand trial; one died, and another, Pierre Bouianere, 80, faces a separate proceeding. DNA evidence, including Aomar’s on a plastic tie, led to their arrests.
Charges and Evidence
The defendants face serious charges, including armed robbery, kidnapping, and criminal conspiracy. Prosecutors allege the group meticulously planned the heist, targeting Kardashian’s publicized wealth.
Her social media posts, flaunting jewels and her whereabouts, reportedly aided the robbers. Abbas dropped a €30,000 diamond cross while fleeing by bicycle, one of the few recovered items. Most jewels, likely sold in Belgium, remain missing.
Kardashian to Testify
Kim Kardashian will testify in person on May 13, her lawyer Michael Rhodes confirmed. She described to police a robber with a “strong French accent” demanding her ring. The trial reopens a painful chapter for the reality star, now 44, amid her ongoing custody disputes with West. Posts on X reflect mixed sentiments, with some dismissing the case as “old news.”
A Criminal Comeback Gone Wrong
The aging suspects, per prosecutors, saw the heist as a final score to revive their criminal careers. Aomar called it “easy,” unlike typical armed robberies, due to Kardashian’s lack of security. Arrested four months later in Paris and southern France, their DNA betrayed them. The trial will probe their motives and planning, captivating global audiences.
Lasting Impact
Labeled France’s biggest individual robbery in 20 years, the heist rocked celebrity culture. Kardashian bolstered her security and briefly stepped back from social media.
The trial, covered widely by outlets like The Guardian and AFP, underscores justice’s long reach. As Paris prepares for the courtroom drama, the world watches. Will the “Grandpa Robbers” finally pay for their audacious crime?
This is Kyle Thomas, a professional writer, and a news editor. I started my career as a blogger who writes on various topics and then I decided that I should join a NEWS agency where I can work as a NEWS reporter. So, I joined a renowned agency in the town as an internet and after getting 2 years of experience, now I am working as a senior NEWS reporter for The Daily NEWS Times.
